3 Features to Look for When Evaluating Network Access Control (NAC) for Your University
You take great measures to ensure the safety of your university’s students.
You probably hired a team of security guards to patrol the campus and scheduled regular fire drills for residence halls.
Despite your best efforts, you may be overlooking one of the biggest threats to campus safety; Hackers.
Universities hold massive databases of sensitive student information. And the growing popularity of BYOD (bring-your-own-device) policies, make them the prime target for cyber-criminals.
SafeConnect Large Institutions – 2-1-16
Universities from Rutgers to Pennsylvania State have experienced serious data breaches.
Learning and life have become increasingly intertwined with tablets, smart phones, and other personal gadgets, therefore a reactive approach to Cyber Security must be eradicated.
Adopting a Network Access Control (NAC) system is the logical first step towards a strong Cyber security practice.
The right NAC will empower your university to monitor user activity and adjust wireless access accordingly.
Though there are many to choose from, very few Network Access Control systems are uniquely suited to protect and facilitate the optimal function of your university.
To make your decision easier, consider the following:
- Compatibility With Your Current Infrastructure
Many Network Access Control solutions require manipulation of Layer 2 network switch devices, wireless access points, and Virtual Private Network (VPN) concentrators.
In addition to being time consuming, each adjustment presents a new opportunity for error.
It is essential to employ a vendor-independent NAC. And keep hands-on projects in the course syllabus where they belong!
A vendor agnostic NAC will seamlessly integrate your existing infrastructure. It will allow you to avoid the hassle and risk of network modification.
- Proactive Updates
Because university students are often the first demographic to embrace new technology, your school needs a NAC that supports and secures new devices as soon as your students adopt them.
University students move quickly. Hackers move even faster.
For this reason, it’s crucial to choose a NAC that routinely updates to support new operating systems in real time.
- Endpoint Security that promotes Academic freedom
Security and freedom aren’t mutually exclusive. A university grade NAC must provide clear endpoint visibility without infringing on students’ right to privacy.
Boston University, Northern Arizona University and the University of California at Los Angeles exemplify Academic freedom.
They have adopted Network Control Access that is flexible enough to align with their time-honored commitment to academic freedom while closely monitoring network security.
Administrators benefit from real-time reporting and historical data on policy status events that exclude specifics about data content.
Your university needs a NAC agile enough to navigate the ever-changing technological landscape.
It must be sophisticated enough to support academic freedom, and convenient enough to do all of the above without disrupting your current network.
Abrahams Consulting can help you find the Network Access Control solution that is right for you.
Contact us to help you secure your school.
